Fireworks still a cause for concern
FOLLOWING the article, Loud fireworks scare dog, week ending 17 January, people have shared their various views about the dog that injured itself trying to escape fireworks in Sandton.
Maria Carreira said, “If these dog owners cannot protect their dogs then too bad for them and shame on them.” She said fireworks were part of most cultures around the world and listed Guy Fawkes Day, Diwali, and New Year’s Day as the three dates in which fireworks will most likely be used. “Dog owners should be able to protect their dogs for three days in a year,” she added.
Eileen Eccles said, “Loud fireworks should be banned. What is it with people that they have no respect for their neighbours these days?”
The City of Johannesburg’s bylaws allow for fireworks to be used. However, fireworks are only allowed on certain days and on certain times. Danae Horsler, commented on the looklocal Sandton Facebook page that two of her ducklings died in Sandown from ‘stress’. “Our neighbours were setting off window-shuddering rockets. It is so selfish,” she added.
One of the more extreme comments on the looklocal Sandton website said animals should not be domesticated, but that they should be left in the wild to survive naturally.
Candice Scorer, Sandton SPCA spokesperson said there were recommended ways of protecting pets from fireworks. One of the methods include creating a ‘safe house’ or den equipped with blankets and other items to keep the pet distracted from the loud noise.
Vet, Dr Deidre Kempis said the most extreme method that can be used for pets as means of protection from fireworks would be to purchase anti-anxiety drugs for the animal. “If pet owners take their pets to the vet for assessment, they can get a combination of strong drugs. But the best thing to do is to keep the pets indoors,” she said.
Maria,
So sad that you have no compassion for an animal. My son tried everything to pacify our dog, which unfortunately did not work. Do you consider 3 hours of commercial fireworks in a residential area as a persons right to celebrate? Does Halloween also count as the ‘three days in the year?’ So let me understand this. According to you, there are only three days of the year we need to worry about fireworks? The 5th November was Guy Fawkes. On the 31st October, fireworks were let off to celebrate halloween. 31st January, as well as 1st January, fireworks were let off. Plus there is still Chinese New Year, Hindu New Year and Diwali, to name but a few.
I have a dog that was severely traumatised, and who will never be the same again. Nice to know that you feel sorry for her, and I do hope you never experience the feeling of helplessness that we experienced with her.